From his lodgings in Abha, located in the southwest of Saudi Arabia, Pitso Mosimane is experiencing a sense of accomplishment in recent days. After concluding his daily routine of training and strategizing for his new role in the Saudi Pro League, he indulges in following the captivating international tournaments that mark the start of the new year.
The Africa Cup of Nations and the Asian Cup hold special significance for Mosimane. Watching players whose development he played a pivotal role in succeeding in Ivory Coast, and witnessing the evolution of Gulf football dynamics in Qatar, has fueled his anticipation for what he terms his “new adventure” – a rescue mission with Abha, a club currently one position above the bottom of the Saudi Pro League table, as the league resumes after its winter hiatus.
Despite the tough performances from Saudi Pro League’s international players in the recent continental tournaments, Mosimane finds joy in individual accomplishments. The seasoned 59-year-old coach, a three-time CAF Champions League winner, reflects on the changing landscape of African coaching and expresses gratitude for the opportunities offered by the Middle East.
Not a stranger to Saudi Arabia, Mosimane previously achieved success as a rescuer with Al Ahli. Last season, he guided the club to an instant promotion after a relegation setback. However, he departed just before a significant financial injection transformed Al Ahli, setting them on a path of unprecedented support from the country’s Public Investment Fund.
While acknowledging the disparities between the more privileged Saudi clubs and Abha, Mosimane embraces the challenge. His charismatic and forward-thinking approach makes him a valuable addition to a league that emphasizes global reach and diverse expertise, where coaches like Jorge Jesus and Marcelo Gallardo have won South America’s Champions League.
As Mosimane gears up for his coaching debut with Abha against Al Taawoun, he acknowledges the league’s growing stature but reserves judgment until after a few matches. His focus is on the challenge at hand, aiming to steer Abha away from relegation and potentially elevate the club to greater heights in the future. For Mosimane, it’s another adventure, and he relishes the opportunity.
